Conkies aka Dunkanoo

Conkies aka Dunkanoo Recipe from Barbados with Plantains and Nutmeg

Region / culture: Barbados | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Conkies, also known as Dunkanoo, are a traditional Caribbean dessert made with plantains, sugar, and spices. These delicious treats are wrapped in banana leaves and boiled to perfection.

History

Conkies have been a popular dish in the Caribbean for generations. They are often made during special occasions such as Christmas and Easter. The recipe has been passed down through families and is a beloved tradition in many Caribbean households.

Ingredients

3 ripe plantains
0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp sifted flour
0.5 cup brown sugar
banana leaves or aluminum foil
0.5 tsp grated nutmeg

How to prepare

Place the plantains in a pot of salted water and boil them until they become tender.
In a bowl, mash the plantains with a fork and add the butter, sugar, and spices.
If needed, add a small amount of flour to create a thick paste.
Wash the banana leaves and make them pliable by boiling them.
Cut the leaves into pieces approximately 6 inches square.
Next, place 2 tbsp of the plantain mixture onto each leaf piece, roll it up, fold it over, and tie the ends.
Fill a large, sturdy saucepan with water and bring it to a boil.
Add the conkie packages and boil them for 45 to 50 minutes.
Serve the conkies while still warm.

Variations

Add raisins or chopped nuts to the plantain mixture for added texture and flavor.
Use coconut milk instead of water for a richer taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use ripe plantains for the best flavor and texture.

- Be careful when boiling the banana leaves, as they can easily tear.

- Adjust the amount of sugar and spices to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Conkies can be enjoyed on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the conkies in water helps to cook them evenly and infuse the flavors of the banana leaves into the dessert.

Ingredient Substitutions

If plantains are not available, ripe bananas can be used as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

Conkies can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to boil and serve.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the conkies on a platter lined with banana leaves for an authentic Caribbean touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Conkies pair well with a cup of hot tea or a glass of coconut water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover conkies can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply steam the conkies until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of conkies contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of conkies contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of conkies contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of conkies contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Conkies are a good source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin A.

Alergens

Conkies may contain gluten and dairy allergens.

Summary

Conkies are a delicious and nutritious dessert option, providing a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Summary

Conkies are a delicious and traditional Caribbean dessert that is sure to delight your taste buds. With a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, these treats are a must-try for any food lover.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Conkies, also known as Dunkanoo. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my Auntie Tessa with her baking for the day. As I was leaving her house, she handed me a piece of paper with a scribbled recipe on it and told me it was a special treat that her grandmother used to make.

I didn't think much of it at first, but when I got home and looked at the recipe, I was intrigued. The combination of cornmeal, coconut, raisins, and spices seemed unusual, but I was determined to give it a try. I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen.

As I mixed the batter together, the aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the air, transporting me back to my childhood. I remembered watching my own grandmother in her kitchen, creating delicious dishes with just a few simple ingredients. She always said that the key to good cooking was love and patience, and I tried to channel her spirit as I made the Conkies.

After shaping the mixture into small balls and wrapping them in banana leaves, I placed them in a steamer and waited anxiously for them to cook. The anticipation was almost unbearable, but when I finally unwrapped the Conkies and took a bite, I knew I had discovered something truly special. The texture was slightly chewy, with a hint of sweetness from the raisins and coconut. It was a taste unlike any other I had experienced before.

I shared the Conkies with my family and friends, and they were met with rave reviews. Everyone wanted to know where I had learned to make such a unique and delicious treat. I proudly told them about Auntie Tessa and her grandmother's recipe, and soon, Conkies became a staple in my own kitchen.

Over the years, I continued to make Conkies for special occasions and gatherings. Each time I prepared them, I felt a connection to the past and to the generations of women who had come before me. It was more than just a recipe; it was a link to my heritage and a way to honor the traditions of my family.

I began to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to make it truly my own. Sometimes I would substitute different fruits for the raisins, or add a dash of rum for an extra kick. Each batch was a new creation, but the essence of the Conkies remained the same - a taste of home and a reminder of the love and care that went into every dish.

As I grew older, I realized that the recipes I had collected over the years were more than just instructions for making food. They were a part of my identity and a way to preserve the memories of the women who had shaped me into the person I had become. Cooking became more than just a chore; it was a way to connect with my past and to share a piece of myself with those I loved.

And so, whenever I make Conkies, I think of Auntie Tessa and her grandmother, and I am grateful for the gift of their recipe. It has brought me joy and comfort in times of celebration and sorrow, and I will always treasure the moments spent in my kitchen, creating a taste of the past for those I hold dear.